Required Documents for Residence Permit in Romania: A Guide for Employers

1.  茶 Required Documents for Residence Permit in Romania: A Guide for Employers by Catalin TSeptember 17, 2025 Residence Permit in Romania: What Employers Need to Know If you're an employer in Romania looking to hire non-EU foreign workers, the third major hurdle—after obtaining the Work Authorization and Visa—is securing the Residence Permit. This document is far more than a bureaucratic formality; it’s the legal key that allows your employee to work and reside in Romania long- term. In theory, the process seems straightforward: gather a few documents, submit them to the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI), and eventually receive the residence card. In practice, however, the required paperwork is diverse, the procedure is riddled with pitfalls, and even minor errors can lead to significant delays or outright rejection. That’s why many companies choose to partner with GlobalWorker—a recruitment and consultancy agency that turns a complex process into a fast, legal, and stress-free solution. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential documents for obtaining a residence permit and how we help employers save time and resources. What Is a Residence Permit? The residence permit is an official document issued by IGI that certifies a foreign citizen’s right to live and work in Romania for a fixed or indefinite period. It’s a biometric card, similar to an ID, containing the holder’s personal data, validity period, and purpose of stay (employment, studies, family reunification, etc.). Key Distinctions: Long-Stay Visa (Type D/AM for employment) – obtained in the worker’s country of origin before entering Romania. Residence Permit – obtained in Romania after entering with a visa and signing the employment contract. ● ●

2. ⚠   ⚠  Without a residence permit, your employee cannot legally work, and your company risks fines and sanctions. Required Documents for the Residence Permit The list may vary depending on the job type and worker profile, but the following documents are mandatory in all cases: Standard Documents: Completed application form (provided by IGI) Valid passport (original and copy) Work authorization issued by IGI based on the employer’s request Individual employment contract registered with the Labor Inspectorate (ITM) Proof of accommodation (rental agreement, housing contract, or employer-provided lodging) Valid health insurance in Romania Passport-style photo Paid fees (currently 259 RON for the residence card) Additional Documents: Highly skilled workers (EU Blue Card): diploma, relevant professional experience Seasonal workers: fixed-term contract, proof of temporary housing Secondments: secondment contract, documents from the parent company All documents must be submitted in both original and copy, and where applicable, translated and legalized. ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Common Pitfalls Employers Face Many employers who attempt the process alone encounter challenges such as: Errors in the application form – even small mistakes can lead to rejection Missing authorized translations of foreign documents Long delays in IGI appointments – sometimes months of waiting Discrepancies between the work authorization and employment contract Missing the legal deadline – workers must apply within 30 days of entering Romania GlobalWorker helps prevent these issues through meticulous document checks and direct coordination with authorities. ● ● ● ● ● Step-by-Step Procedure Work Authorization – employer submits request to IGI Long-Stay Visa Application – worker applies at the Romanian consulate in their home country Entry into Romania – with a valid visa Residence Permit Application – within 30 days of arrival 1. 2. 3. 4.

3.  欄  ✅ ❓ 5. Biometric Card Issuance – typically within 30–45 days Validity Periods Type of Permit Standard Work Permit EU Blue Card Seasonal Workers Permanent Residence Validity 1 year (renewable) 2 years Up to 6 months After 5 years of continuous legal stay How GlobalWorker Supports Employers Partnering with GlobalWorker means more than just recruitment. When it comes to residence permits, our team offers: Full consultancy – we explain what documents are needed and who provides them File verification – we catch errors before they cause delays Translation & legalization – through certified translators IGI assistance – appointments, submissions, clarifications Logistical support – temporary housing, transport, and worker integration Example: A construction company in Timișoara successfully hired 5 Nepali workers in just 5 months thanks to our support with documentation and IGI scheduling. ● ● ● ● ● Full article in Romanian language here: https://globalworker.ro/acte-necesare- permis-sedere/ Employer Benefits Simplified process – no more wasting time on bureaucracy Predictability – clear timelines and costs Legal compliance – everything aligned with Romanian law Risk reduction – avoid fines and rejections ● ● ● ● Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) How long does it take to get a residence permit? The full process can take 6–9 months, depending on document readiness and IGI scheduling. The permit itself is issued 30–45 days after submission. Can the worker start working before receiving the permit? Yes, legal employment begins after submitting the residence permit application. Who pays the residence permit fees? Typically the employer, but it depends on the contract. What happens if documents are incomplete? The application is rejected, and the process must restart—causing months of delay. 1. 2. 3. 4.

4.        5. Can the residence permit be extended? Yes, the renewal request must be submitted 30 days before expiration. What if the worker changes employers? A new work authorization is required. Are legalized translations mandatory? Yes, all foreign documents must be translated and legalized in Romania. What’s the difference between temporary and permanent residence permits? Temporary permits are valid for 1–2 years; permanent ones are granted after 5 years of continuous legal stay. What are the risks of hiring a foreigner without a residence permit? Fines between 10,000–20,000 RON and potential bans on hiring foreign workers. How does GlobalWorker help, specifically? We handle the entire process—from work authorization and visa to residence permit— ensuring legality and speed. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Don’t Let Bureaucracy Stall Your Projects Obtaining a residence permit for foreign workers is complex but essential for building a stable, legally compliant team. With careful preparation and the support of a specialized agency like GlobalWorker, success is guaranteed. Contact GlobalWorker at office@globalworker.ro or WhatsApp 034 044 to discover how we can help you recruit qualified foreign staff—legally and efficiently. +40 730 Free Consultation Available: Phone: +40 730 034 044 Email: office@globalworker.ro Website: www.globalworker.ro Address: Strada Florimund Mercy nr. 2, ap. 12, Timișoara, Romania